When you’re planning an exterior repaint, you have a lot of decisions to make. Color, sheen, scope of work, finding a professional painter, timeline, priorities, and the list goes on… It’s exciting, but we know that sometimes the details can start to blur together, especially if you’re trying to manage the process on your own.
Here’s another good question you might be asking yourself: “Does the quality of my exterior paint matter, or is it all basically the same?”
It can be tempting to grab whatever seems economical and hope for the best, but before you do, we have some important tips for you to keep in mind. The short answer is that yes, paint quality does matter, but definitely keep reading to get the longer answer, too. We’ve packed in some good info to help you make the best choice possible.
The Impact of Exterior Paint Quality
The quality of the exterior paint you choose can and will greatly affect the overall look and outcome of your paint job. High-quality paint offers better color retention, for example, ensuring that your chosen color remains vibrant and attractive for a longer time. On the other hand, low-quality paint may fade or discolor much more quickly, leaving your building looking dull and worn-out.
Beyond just aesthetics, keep in mind that exterior paint quality plays a vital role in protecting your home from the elements, too. New Jersey experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year, as you know. High-quality exterior paint is designed to withstand these elements and provide a durable, protective barrier against moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. This protection helps prevent damage to the underlying surfaces, such as wood rot, moisture intrusion, and deterioration.
What’s the Difference Between High-Quality and Low-Quality Exterior Paint?
High-quality paint is formulated with top-grade ingredients, including high concentrations of pigments and binders. And better quality ingredients are simply better at doing their job, meaning they last longer and offer superior performance.
Plus, high-quality exterior paint provides enhanced resistance to weathering. It maintains its integrity, preventing issues like cracking, peeling, and blistering that can result from exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture. Low-quality paint, on the other hand, often lacks the necessary protective properties, leading to premature paint failure and the need for more frequent repainting. That drives up your maintenance costs over time.
Another essential aspect of exterior paint quality is fade resistance and color retention. High-quality paints are formulated to retain their color vibrancy, even if they face relentless sun exposure. This means your building will continue to look fresh and appealing for much longer, while low-quality paints may quickly fade and lose their original hue.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Exterior Paint
When you’re picking exterior paint, consider this:
- Climate and weather conditions. Especially if your corner of the world experiences varying temperatures, humidity levels, and precipitation, it’s crucial to choose paint designed to withstand these challenges.
- Secondly, the type of surface you’re painting should play a role in paint selection. Different materials, like wood, stucco, or metal, require specific types of paint and preparation techniques to achieve optimal results. Consult with a professional painting company to ensure you choose the right paint for your specific surface.
- Finally, consider your desired color and finish. High-quality paints offer a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing you to achieve the exact look you envision for your building. Remember, quality paints can deliver the style you want and the performance you need.
FAQs
Q: Is there a significant difference between high-quality and low-quality exterior paint?
A: Yes! High-quality paint offers better color retention, fade resistance, and durability. It also provides enhanced protection against weathering and environmental factors, resulting in a longer lifespan for the painted surfaces.
Q: Can I use interior paint for exterior surfaces?
A: No, interior paint isn’t designed to withstand the elements. Always use paint specifically formulated for exterior use or else it just won’t last.
Q: How often should I repaint my house?
A: It all comes down to the quality of the paint, the climate, and the condition of the surfaces. High-quality paints can last 8-10 years or more, while lower-quality paints may require repainting every 3-5 years.
Q: Can I save money by using cheaper paint?
A: While it may seem cost-effective initially, using low-quality paint can result in more frequent repainting and increased maintenance costs. Investing in high-quality paint upfront can save you money in the long run by providing superior durability and longevity.
What’s the Takeaway?
Exterior paint quality does matter, and investing in the right paint will ultimately save you time, money, and the hassle of frequent repainting. It’s an upfront investment, but the longer-term dividends are huge and will pay you back over and over again.
If you have more questions about exterior painting in New Jersey, contact us at Cherry Hill Painting. We’re here to help and would love to serve you and your home.